Fitchburg priest avoids jail in child porn case

WORCESTER (AP) — A Roman Catholic priest who once served at a Fitchburg parish has avoided jail time after pleading guilty to possessing child pornography and stealing from his church.

The Rev. Lowe Dongor was sentenced Wednesday in Worcester Superior Court to 2 ½ years in jail, with the entire term suspended for five years of probation. Prosecutors said child pornography was found on his computer, and he was also accused of stealing church collection money.

The 37-year-old Dongor was assigned to St. Joseph’s parish when he was initially charged in 2011.

Authorities say Dongor fled to his native Philippines, before returning to the U.S. in November.

Worcester Bishop Robert McManus has asked the Vatican to defrock Dongor.

Dongor’s lawyer said his client has no prior record and cooperated with investigators.